I really abhor being a “foregone conclusion” for those who think they know me so well because of my life and faith. Assumptions are made, and decisions are carried out based upon personal biases, and without proper information being obtained. This happens often with the assumptions non-Christians make concerning believers, especially in regards to the more conservative Christian sect. Many of you know the assumptions I speak of because we've all heard statements attesting to these beliefs.

“Christians are hypocrites.”

“Christians are ignorant and racist.”

“Christians are weak and superstitious.”

“Oh, he is ‘one’ of those …” (You fill in the blank)

Secularists routinely use their multiple media outlets to bombard not only America with this type of misinformation but the rest of the world as well. Often their purpose is to minimize you as an individual and your ministry in order to discredit your work for the cause of Christ. I witnessed this first hand when I was attending Liberty University in the early eighties. Liberal writers and TV personalities would often visit Lynchburg in order to follow up on some story based upon a controversial statement Dr. Falwell made publicly. What often made it into print, or on the telecast, was almost always one-sided placing Dr. Falwell and the University in a negative light. Typically, Liberty in those days was most often portrayed as a small, insignificant liberal arts college that catered to the fringe elements of Christian society. Today Liberty is the largest evangelical university in the world with more than 80,000 students; she is no longer considered small or insignificant. But I don’t want to mislead you, we as Christians often do the same thing as we make certain assumptions, not only about nonbelievers, but fellow Christians as well. During the last twenty-five years in ministry I've served with Christians who sometimes seek to minimize the ministry of others. Their reasons, although different from secularists, are often rooted in the same soil. The secularist usually minimizes the Christian and his/her faith for political and philosophical reasons. Believers tend to diminish the work and ministry of another because of a lack of respect, or out of fear, and personal insecurities seeking to elevate self. In both cases it always comes back to having an inflated view of one’s importance. Note the words the Apostle Paul spoke to Timothy in his service to the church at Ephesus. 1 Timothy 4:11-16 (ESV) Command and teach these things. 12 Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. Paul’s instruction to Timothy was to let no one “despise” his youth. Some have suggested one was still considered to be a “youth” until he was no longer of the age to serve in the military, which by the way was the age of thirty-nine. The word “despise” is kataphronéō and means to “hold in contempt or to think lightly of.” The Apostle was encouraging Timothy not to be intimidated by others in the Church because of his young age. The principle here moves beyond the youthfulness of Timothy, and can be applied to every believer and the ministry they have been called to perform. No follower of Christ should be intimidated or made to feel inferior because of age, spiritual gifts, areas of service, or the size of one’s following. Timothy’s work was vital to the church body in Ephesus. He was to conduct himself in such a manner in order to demonstrate his spiritual maturity as a pattern for others to follow. Every Christian has been blessed with at least one spiritual gift that is to be used for the edification of the Church, and ultimately for the glorification of God. The Apostle Paul addresses this in First Corinthians 12 as he speaks to the variety of gifts given, and the importance of every member in the body of Christ. My encouragement to you is this, just as we would stand up against those outside the Church who would seek to minimize our service to God, we should also stand up to those inside the Church who attempt to do the same. If God has called you, then He has also equipped you for ministry. Let no one “despise” you for any perceived limitations, or fear-based petty self-centeredness. Serve the Lord with all your might in order that He would be glorified, and then you will have the praise of God. Blessings,Rod

Tomorrow, January 22, 2013 will be the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade which legalized abortion on demand in our country. As a result of the Supreme Court’s decision in 1973, it is now estimated that the lives of 55 million children have been terminated in the United States. This is a mind-boggling number when we began to compare it to other tragic events in our national history. More individuals have been put to death by means abortion than the total number of soldiers lost in all of our military campaigns since the beginning of our nation. Consider this, in the 236 years of our existence approximately 1.4 million people have died in service to our country, and ironically this is the number of abortions we average per year in the United States. Look at those numbers again side-by-side, 1.4 million to 55 million. Please know I’m not trying to equate the horrific act of abortion to the sacrifices made by military personnel who have given their lives for our freedom. What I do want to provide is simply a comparison of numbers in order for us to firmly grasp the atrocities carried out against the unborn. I think we could make a case that there is a “war on the unborn” in our country. This “war” is not only carried out against the helpless child in a mother’s womb, but is also conducted upon the battlefields which are the hearts and minds of individuals within our country. Essentially this is a cultural war waged by extreme ideologies, greed, and selfishness, seeking to draw younger generations into the fold. Many of the arguments provided by pro-choice advocates I personally find to be asinine, intellectually dishonest, and certainly un-scriptural. Let’s consider for a moment the old argument from pro-choice advocates, “that which grows within the mother’s womb is not a baby, but simply tissue in the developmental stages of becoming a baby.” We can also join with this position their arguments of when life begins, and when that life becomes a person. These champions of choice deny life begins at conception, and hold to an idea that one does not become a person until he or she is viable outside the womb. With the advancements of new technologies such as ultrasounds and 3-D imaging we can now see the development of a child from the very early stages in utero. By the time most pregnancies are detected signs of life are already evident. Between eighteen and twenty-two days after conception a baby’s heartbeat can be heard. After six weeks brain waves can be measured, and by week twelve eyes, hands, and feet have begun to develop and the child can feel pain. Concerning when life begins, most embryology textbooks support the position that human life begins when the egg and sperm are joined together. As for person-hood each individual is recognized as unique at conception based upon one’s DNA. From a scriptural standpoint viability outside the womb has absolutely nothing to do with when an individual becomes a person. God foreknew you by name and all the ways of your life in eternity past, note Romans 8:29; Ephesians 1:4; and especially Jeremiah 1:5.Jeremiah 1:5 (ESV) “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Let’s put aside for just a moment the elements of predestination in Romans and Ephesians as they relate to the believer. Let’s also put aside the fact that Jeremiah 1:5 deal specifically with the prophet Jeremiah. What lies behind these teachings in regards to life before conception can lead us to only one conclusion. If person-hood existed for an individual in the mind of God before the foundation of the world for one person, then person-hood can be applied to all individuals. In other words, not only did God know you before the earth was ever placed in her orbit, but He also knows each aborted child by name. What I find so hypocritical is that a great number of pro-choice activists, who are radical in their support of abortion, are just as radical in their support of laws that punish individuals who may harm an endangered species. These individuals place a greater value upon the egg of a bald eagle or sea turtle than they do upon the life of an unborn child. Even the laws in many of our states are hypocritical. Charges of manslaughter or murder can be brought against an individual who causes the death of an unborn child by accident or some violent act. Yet, if a mother so chooses, she can end the life of her child by simply walking through the doors of an abortion provider and face no legal consequences. The whole idea that a woman has a right to choose to do with her body as she sees fit is a flawed argument. One, the mother’s body is separate from the body that grows within her; these are two entirely different individuals. Two, only one of these individuals has a choice and that being the mother, her child remains speechless and relies upon others for its defense. Many who side with the pro-choice lobbyist often argue against pro-life Christians as being hypocritical because of their support for the death penalty. On the surface I would agree that being pro-life and pro-death penalty appears to be incongruent, but as we look more closely at Scripture we can see that the two are not at all related. One is an issue of a basic human right, the other is a legal matter based upon governing. God established human government and enacted capital punishment in Genesis 9:5 – 6 in His covenant with Noah, as a response to the unbound wickedness of mankind before the flood. This form of punishment was designed by God as a way of protecting humanity, and demonstrating the high-value He placed on the life of all individuals. Some will argue that states who exercise capital punishment do so inequitably and a portion of these individuals who face death have been wrongly accused. The problem then is not with God’s mandate, but with the system in which we carry out this judgment upon the convicted. The bottom line is this, God is sovereign and He has established what is right and wrong according to His standards. According to God’s Word the act of taking an infant’s life while in the mother’s womb is a vile and sinful act. Read for yourself Amos 1:13 – 15; 2 Kings 8:12; 15:16; Hosea 13:16. Also according to His Word governments have the right to carry out the act of capital punishment against those who are found guilty of shedding another’s blood. Ultimately pro-choice activists really don’t have a problem with pro-life Christians; they have a problem with God and His Word. Time and space do not permit me to write about all the responsibilities we have as Christians to the young women who are faced with difficult decisions and the unborn children they carry. Suffice it to say, we are to love both mother and child. We should do all within our power to help those in need so that abortion might not even be considered. We are to help financially our local crisis pregnancy centers, adoption agencies, homes for unwed mothers, and other ministries that work with these women. Jesus loved the little children of the world and so should we. In the name of Christ,Rod

Over the last several months I've had the opportunity to preach a series entitled “God and ____________” in the church where I presently serve. This has been primarily a doctrinal series in connection with postmodern thought and its devastating affects upon the Church today. We have examined a variety of doctrinal areas in regards to the teachings of Scripture versus prevalent secular and cultural teachings. Some of the topic areas covered have been, “God and God, God and the Bible, God and the End-times, God and Sin,” and so forth. For the month of January I've led our congregation in a study of “God and Government” from both a historical and scriptural perspective. There were four main questions we sought to answer during our time together, but one question seems to be more prevalent than any other in regards to our Christian behavior. That one question is simply this, “What is the truth concerning the Separation of Church and State, and what level of involvement should Christians have in politics if any?” Before we can answer this pertinent question we should ask another question first, “Is there really such a thing as the separation of Church and State from a biblical perspective?” The answer is, yes and no. First, there is an implied separation of Church and State based upon the teachings of Christ. We find this in a very familiar passage to many Christians in which the religious leaders of Jesus’ day were trying to entrap Him. The scribes and Pharisees were hoping to bring charges against Christ that might land him in trouble with either the Jewish people or the Roman government. Note the passage found in Matthew 22:17 – 21. 17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? 19 Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 20 And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” 21 They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” Their idea was if Christ Jesus sided with Rome against Israel then He would be considered a traitor to His own people. Then again, if He sided with Israel over Rome He could be accused of being an insurgent, and opposing governmental authorities which would not only discredit His ministry, but could also be grounds for the death penalty. Either way the scribes and Pharisees believed they had Him over the proverbial barrel. Yet from this Christ provides us with a principal that is still important today. He recognized, and so should we, that God and government are two separate entities, and to each something is owed. So yes in one respect there is a separation between God and government from a biblical perspective with each holding a place of importance, authority, and honor. Secondly, the Scripture also implies that one is subservient to the other which would indicate a lack of separation. In the book of Romans the Apostle Paul reveals to us that human government has not only been designed by God but also instituted by Him. Read his words here in Romans 13:3 – 4. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, 4 for he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer. Clearly Paul views human government as well as governmental leaders as the servants and tools of God which are to operate according to His will. No government would exist, nor would any governmental leader possess authority without God. Therefore, every government and her leaders will ultimately answer to God for their stewardship in governing thereby revealing a lack of separation between Church and State. God instituted human government for the protection and well-being of mankind, with the expectation that it promote righteousness, justice, and peace. Our first president, George Washington, fully understood the importance and significance of faith and religion in the governing of any nation. Note this portion of his farewell address from September 17, 1796. “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest prop of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish them. … And let us with caution indulge in the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle. … Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it?” The movement in our society towards greater secularization has led many of our most cherished institutions to sadistically twist the First Amendment of our Constitution concerning the religious establishment clause. If we are to believe the mainstream media and many of our public educators concerning the First Amendment, then it should read, “… a freedom from religion, and not a freedom of religion.” In regards to religion our founding fathers intended the First Amendment to accomplish three things; 1) It was to prevent the establishment of a national church or religion, or providing a preferred status regarding any denomination, 2) It was to protect the freedom of conscience concerning religious beliefs against the attacks of government, and 3) It was constructed in such a way that would allow States to be unhindered in their dealings with religious organizations, and to aid them as they saw fit. Our Founding Fathers included the religious clause in the First Amendment not to be a hindrance to the Church, but that a free Church would be a benefit to the State. They had every expectation our country would be wholly Christian, and that our government would reflect such a fact. Many of our younger citizens today actually believe the phrase, “Separation of Church and State” exist within the Constitution, and it does not. This phrase was used by Thomas Jefferson on January 1, 1802 in a letter he wrote to the Danbury Baptist Association of Connecticut. Note this portion of his letter to these concerned citizens, and how he uses the phrase, “Separation of Church and State.”"Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church & State. Adhering to this expression of the supreme will of the nation in behalf of the rights of conscience, I shall see with sincere satisfaction the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore to man all his natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to his social duties." Jefferson’s words are often taken out of context and abused by secularist in our country, and the wall he speaks of is to be a one-way wall. Let’s remember the context of the times in which these people were living, and their concerns about religious liberties. They vividly remembered the reason for leaving Europe in order to seek relief from the religious persecution enacted by the State. The State isn’t to influence the Church, but the Church is to have influence within and upon the State. The First Congress working within the guidelines of the new Constitution never sought to separate this nation from God, but to unify it under Him when they requested President Washington declare a “Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer.” He issued the declaration apparently without any reservation in regards to Church and State. Clearly our Founding Fathers believed our country was to be based on and operate under Christian principles. Even later presidents functioned under similar guidelines. It was President Lincoln who in 1863 also called for a “National Day of Fasting” upon which he made this statement, “We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven … But we have forgotten God.” So with this said again we ask, “As Christians what should our involvement in government be?” We have no choice but to be involved. Our Christian beliefs do not separate us from our citizenship as Americans. We are to be involved as God’s representatives promoting righteousness, justice, and peace. The Church in America has been silent for far too long because of the bullying of those outside the Church, and who often hold God and His Church in contempt. Rise up Church and be bold in your witness for you have every right under God, and the Constitution of the United States to be heard in the public square.May God's peace be upon you,Rod

The video below is approximately 8 minutes long and provides great information from David Barton, a Christian and American historian.

Some of you may remember the tragedy that took place during the month of August 2007, when a group of miners in Utah were trapped when the tunnel they were working in collapsed. For ten days miners scrambled to dig several holes deep into the mountain trying to rescue their friends and colleagues. The more tunnels they dug the more setbacks they sustained. Each tunnel began to collapse and eventually killing three others. Finally rescuers reached a point where all drilling had to stop; the deeper they dug the more lives they endangered. One supervisor stated, “We conceded defeat to a mountain that appeared to be slowly crumbling.” Yet even as word came from authorities calling all drilling to cease, one crew of rescuers refused to quit. When reporters went to interview the organizer of the crew which defied the order to stand down he made the following statement: “Without question, we have suffered a setback, and we have incurred an incredible loss. But this team remains focused on the task at hand – the rescue of the miners.” The sad part of this story is that several hours later this crew also had to suspend their rescue attempt because the tunnel they were drilling began to collapse as well. The men trapped in that mine ten days earlier would never again see the light of day. The mountain became their tomb as all entrances into it were filled and never to be used again. These men were driven from within to press on in spite of the overwhelming odds against them. Maybe it was their love or devotion for their brethren, or the idea that it could have been one of them, they simply believed they could succeed where all others failed. Yet when all was said and done they had to surrender acknowledging their efforts and personal sacrifice would not be enough. There are so many stories throughout Scripture that should encourage us to be like the last rescue crew, maintaining our focus and never willing to give up no matter the circumstances. But our ability to rise above the greatest challenges in life cannot be done in our own power; we need the help of someone bigger than ourselves. I love the words of Christ Jesus in Luke 18:1 when He says, “And He told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” In other words, Christ was conveying to His disciples the key to not quitting is through prayer, and that prayer is to be directed toward the One Who has the power to overcome. As Christians we should never give up knowing we can rely upon God in the midst of our troubles as He teaches us to be resilient. Let’s remember, resiliency is the ability to adjust and overcome the trials and stressors of life. The apostle Paul understood this all too well. He had experienced many difficulties after surrendering his life to Christ, and was constantly being challenged on all sides from the Roman government, superficial Christians, and his Jewish brethren. In introduction of Second Corinthians chapter 1, Paul shares from his personal experience how he was able to persevere and hoping to encourage those in Corinth to do the same. Note what he says in the following verses: 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 (ESV) For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. 10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. I love what the apostle does here by sharing this statement. He doesn’t make light of his feelings of helplessness and despair. I believe he does so in order to powerfully demonstrate his fragileness as a human being. Personally, I can identify with his feelings of anguish and bleak outlook. There have certainly been times in my life when I was ready to throw my hands up and quit, knowing I had no ability within myself to change my circumstances. Many of you who read this I’m sure have had similar feelings. Paul reveals the true source of his ability to continue in the direst circumstances, which is his dependence on the power of God. He firmly believes the power that raised Christ from the dead is the same power that had delivered him before and would deliver him again. In Christ his hope rest, meaning he is confidently assured God will meet his needs, and theirs as He has proven time and again. Remember Christ taught us that one of the keys to not giving up is prayer, and without a doubt the apostle Paul believe this also. Note his next statement to the church at Corinth. 2 Corinthians 1:11 (NLT) And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety. If you’re struggling today or hurting because life has taken an unexpected turn throwing you for a loop, let me encourage you to trust in the One Who is faithful and has the power to deliver. Seek out other Christians and share with them as Paul shared with the church at Corinth, and ask them to not only pray with you but for you. Please feel free to send me your prayer request in order that I might pray for you also. May God’s peace be with you,Rod